Are you looking to improve your interior designs with a simple addition? Well, if you don’t seem to know what to choose, we recommend Wall panels. These simple wall coverings offer a great deal of visual aesthetics and functionality for your rooms. These wall paneling can be bought in a variety of designs and material prints for wall décor. Well, décor is one thing but how to install wall panels like a pro for maximum benefit? This is where we will be helping you today. We have a 6-step process for easy yet professional wall paneling installation.
Why Choose Wall Panels?
As you might have already seen around you homeowners have now shifted from traditional paints. They are opting for wall panels because they offer much more ease of installation and versatility. Plus, as per your budget, you can choose their material like PVC, MDF, real wood, or 3D Designs. For the best effect and maximum value, we recommend their fitting by experienced wall panels installers. Still, if you have experience doing home renovation a little bit, the right guidance and proper tools can let you install these panels yourself.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Wall Panels
This here is the simple guide for installing wall panels if you decide to DIY it. Just follow the steps to the letter and you can save quite a lot on the installation cost.
Step 1. Gather Your Tools and Materials
Before you start with wall panel installation process, you need to first gather your tools and helping materials. What you need for this includes:
- Wall Panels
- A Measuring Tape
- Pencil & A Level
- Adhesive or Nails
- Sandpaper
- Saw or Cutting tool
- Safety Gear like gloves and goggles
- Caulking Gun to apply adhesive
Step 2. Prepare the Wall Surface
For the proper and accurate fitting, you need to have a smooth & clean wall. To prepare your wall for paneling, start by removing any dust, dirt, or debris. Look for any signs of imperfections such as cracks or holes. Fill these imperfections with filler and use sandpaper to sand them down for a smooth finish. Use the measuring tape & level to mark where each panel will be fitted. Doing this ensures proper spacing for a professional clean look later on.
Step 3. Cutting the Panels to Fit
Wall panels often need trimming for fitting around the doors, electrical outlets, and the room doors. You need to mark these areas and cut them carefully with a saw or any other cutting tool. Double-check measurements before you cut the undesired parts to prevent any misaligned cutting mistakes.
Step 4. Applying Adhesive or Fasteners
Depending on your type of wall surface and panel, you can use either the adhesive or the fasteners. For adhesive application, apply it on the backside of the panel and press it firmly onto the wall. Hold the panel to its place for a few minutes for proper adhesion. In case you are using wooden panels or any other heavier material, you need nails or screws for fitting. These nails or screws offer extra stability to your panels – simply secure the panels at the corners and along its edges.
Step 5. Installing the Wall Panels
Start from the one corner of the room and work your way all across the wall. Align every panel with the last one to ensure a flawless even look. Use a level to check for the alignment of the fitted panels as you install every one of them. If you are making use of Tounge-and-Groove panels for installation, you need to interlock them to create a smooth and uniform look.
Step 6. Finishing Touches
Once all your panels are installed, you need to do some finishing touches for an elegant look. Simply fill the gaps for these panels with a sealant or caulk to get a polished appearance. If you are installing the raw hardwood panels, you can sand them lightly before applying a protective finish or paint. Look for the signs of adhesive residue on the panels or in the gaps and remove it before it solidifies
Tips for a Professional Finish
If you wish to achieve a professional finished look for your wall panel installation, follow these tips.
- Measure twice but cut once – accuracy needs to be your focus to get a clean look.
- You must always make use of a Level to ensure a proper alignment rather than having a messy finish.
- For a certain wall material, you might need a strong construction-grade adhesive for better fitting.
- Some of the materials such as wood expand or contract under temperature fluctuations – leaving a minute gap within the panels for flexibility.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
These are some mistakes that most wall panel installers make that you should avoid.
- Not doing proper wall preparation like cleaning or fixing the unevenness of the walls.
- Incorrect adhesive application, either too much application or too little – both causing poor adhesion.
- Not factoring in alignment while installing panels can ruin the overall look.
- Not using the right cutting tools – wrong tools result in uneven edges.
Final Thoughts
Our guide on installation of the wall coverings must have satisfied your query of ‘’what’s the best way to install wall panels like a pro’’? You only need to follow these steps to get that professional & flawless finish. It is still best to hire a professional wall panel installation service for the fitting. This way, you get the best value and stylish appeal for these panels.
